updated 09:55 am EST, Mon November 3, 2008

Navigon launches two PNDs

Navigon on Wednesday announced the release of the 5100 max personal navigation devices, spotted earlier this month at the FCC, along with the 2090S. Both units sport Navigon's newest software that can generate routes quicker and makes entering information faster and easier thanks to the company's SmartSpeller software. The 5100 max uses a 4.3-inch touchscreen display with a 16:9 aspect ratio that will display real-time traffic updates. Buyers get these updates for the life of the unit without having to pay any additional subscription fees or having to buy additional hardware.

The 5100 max also includes a Bluetooth module, allowing for hands-free talk when using compatible cell phones. Contacts are synced wirelessly and can be dialed with one touch from the touchscreen interface. The 5100 max also comes with an Exit Guide that enables users to search upcoming Interstate exits for a specific store or service in one of six Point of Interest (POI) categories.

The Navigon 2090S has a 3.5-inch touchscreen display and shares many of the same features with the 5100 max. Both include Navigon FreshMaps, a service that offers as many as eight quarterly map software updates over two years. Reality View Pro brings 3D views that include road sign text and lane guidance for highway interchanges and exits. A second-generation of Lane Assistant provides a lane map and arrows to guide users in the right lane for upcoming exits. The new navigation units will also speak out street names and POIs. Lastly, a DirectHelp function gives directions to close-by emergency service providers that include hospitals, pharmacies and road-side help.

The Navigon 2090S and Navigon 5100 max are available now, exclusively through RadioShack's stores and website, and are priced at nearly $200 and $300 respectively.